Summer is here and you're heading into the mountains for hikes with family or friends. But you're wondering whether you're properly equipped — and you remember last year, when you set off in jeans for a 5 to 6-hour walk with serious elevation gain. And now you know… That in terms of weight, flexibility and breathability… Jeans are really not the ideal trousers for the job!
So we're going to explain how to choose your next hiking trousers for the mountains and why opting for specific technical clothing matters.
Your selection criteria
When choosing any garment, personal taste plays a role — but for technical clothing, additional criteria must also be considered. Versatility If you have the choice, go for hiking trousers that work equally well in cool conditions and in the heat, as much under the midday sun as in the cool of the evening. You need trousers that offer versatility and protection. Many models come with leg sections or half-legs with zip or press-stud closures, making them easy to remove.
So in warm weather, this type of trousers can be worn as shorts or bermudas, and when the temperature drops you can quickly and easily convert them back into full-length trousers. This type of convertible garment costs slightly more than others. But in effect, you are buying both trousers and shorts in one, and when you do the maths, the investment is often well worth it.
Longevity
Hiking trousers need to be built-to-last and stand the test of time. Pay close attention, for example, to whether they are assembled with triple flat-felled or double stitching. The most vulnerable areas of this type of garment need reinforced seams to ensure solid durability. The movements involved in walking — particularly on side slopes — put the fabric under significant strain. This type of stitching absorbs most of that stress and prevents tearing.
For example, the crotch seam should be double-stitched, as should the pockets and central seams, which must also be reinforced to prevent tearing after repeated use.
The fabric
Choosing the right fabric for your trousers is key to your comfort. Natural fibres would be the ideal choice, but synthetic fabrics generally handle moisture better. They are also breathable, allowing perspiration to escape. Today's innovative fabrics deliver great comfort and freedom of movement — pay close attention to the stretch properties of any trousers you consider buying. Also check whether they have reinforcements: particularly at the seat and knees, which are the areas most exposed to abrasion and scrapes. Mountain terrain can also be wet: showers, storms, stream crossings… The waterproofing of your trousers is not something to overlook. Look for a garment that has been treated with a water-repellent finish, for example. The perfect fabric probably doesn't exist, but the truth likely lies in the balanced compromises found by brands like CimAlp, which incorporates bamboo fibre into its latest trousers to deliver comfort, softness and thermal and moisture regulation — without
Finally, your trousers need to be practical: they should have multiple zippered pockets in various sizes, and ideally an integrated adjustable belt. These are small details that, over time, make a huge difference in terms of comfort and usability. So make your purchase thoughtfully, and leave your everyday trousers at home for your mountain escape. These landscapes — and your body — deserve better: choose a good pair of hiking trousers based on your budget, your activity level, and our advice!
